How to spot a flood-damaged car

Vehicles damaged by Hurricane Harvey and Irma could end up in the hands of scammers who sell them as normal cars. Here's how to avoid buying one.

Author:
Matt Schmitz, Cars.com , TEGNA

Published:
9:30 AM EST November 10, 2017

In the wake of the death and destruction caused by the devastating one-two punch of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma this past summer, Americans once again witnessed how disaster brings out the best in us in the form of people helping people in need.

Unfortunately, tough times can also bring out some not-so-great instincts in those willing to exploit a tragedy for personal gain.

Though hurricane floodwaters have receded, they left behind more than 600,000 vehicles swamped by the storms, and shoppers in the coming months need to beware: water-damaged cars from unscrupulous sellers will soon be flooding the market — so you need to know how to spot one.

Cars declared a total loss by insurance estimators will be red-flagged with salvage titles, then sold at auction to dismantlers who will sell off the parts or crush the vehicle and sell it for scrap.

Scammers inevitably will also acquire many of these cars, clean them up, wash the title, then take them out of state for sale to an unwitting buyer who thinks they’re getting a honey of a deal on a used car.

Here are 10 tips from the National Insurance Crime Bureau for spotting a flood-damaged car:

1. Run the vehicle identification number to ensure the car doesn’t have a salvage title. You can find links to reputable VIN checkers at the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System website.

2. Inspect the vehicle — including giving it the ol’ sniff test — for water stains, mildew, sand or silt under the carpet, floormats, headliner and dashboard.

3. Inspect the upholstery and door panel for fading.

4. Check for rust around screws in the center console and areas water doesn't usually reach.

5. Check for mud, grit or rust corrosion in the spare tire compartment and in small crevices under the hood.

6. Inspect the seat belt retractor for moisture, mildew or grime.

7. Make sure the speakers work; door-mounted speakers will often be damaged in a flood.

8. Pay special attention to the wheels; aluminum alloys may be coated in a white powder and show signs of pitting, or dimples.